I have had this kind of thing happen to me quite often. The pain is almost unbearable. I too was in the ER for this type of pain, was also given nitro and it caused a massive migraine, which doc told me do to that reaction, I cant take nitro. It did nothing for the pain, but Im glad it worked for you. I do have swallowing issues, however Ive never been dx with anything specific. I use the head tilt in the down position in order to swallow without choking and this also helps me to not get that pain when I swallow. I have a horrible time swallowing liquids. I have to use a straw and the head tilt. If I forget, I will choke.